GRT Holdings Ltd. was one of four mid-Island businesses to receive funding from the provincial government for capital or planning projects. (GRT Holdings Ltd.)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

jobs and growth

Mid-Island manufacturing businesses receive capital and project funding

Apr 28, 2024 | 8:57 AM

NANAIMO — New provincial funding is behind a series of capital and planning projects for Island-based manufacturing companies.

Support through the ministry of jobs, economic development and innovation will see six capital and four planning projects financed with up to $5 million, a move which is hoped to create new jobs in the sector and help businesses diversify their operations.

Nanaimo-based Rootside Provisions Ltd. will receive up to $156,000 to build a new facility and upgrade equipment, which will triple their beverage-production capacity and create six jobs.

“As a small family business who manufactures niche products with a focus on regional flavours, support from the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund will enable us to expand our capacity with confidence, while allowing us to continue to stay competitive on the international field,” Quinn Palmer, owner, Rootside Provisions Ltd., said in a statement.

GRT Holdings Ltd., also based in Nanaimo, will receive $735,000 for new equipment for product recycling and distribution in the construction industry.

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Aquila Cedar Products Ltd., a wood products manufacturer in Parksville, is set to receive upwards of $879,000 for new equipment and a retrofit of its location, to produce higher-grade wood products.

“This funding allows us to create 20 jobs as a result of upgrading our manufacturing equipment and increasing our production facility to introduce a new line of high-quality timber products,” Mak Chimayt, CEO, Aquila Cedar Products Ltd., said.

COTA Aviation Ltd. will receive $30,000 for creation of a project plan and shop floor assessment, a precursor to investment in AI-based aircraft manufacturing equipment.

Including the latest round of funding, the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund has contributed over $91 million to the sector over recent years and has actively supported 81 organizations.

Other companies in Cumberland, Chemainus, Campbell River, Port McNeill and Mill Bay also received money for similar projects.

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